# Metal Slug 7 - A Nintendo DS Run and Gun Triumph *Metal Slug 7*, released on July 22, 2008, in Japan and November 28, 2008, in North America by Ignition Entertainment, is a run and gun shooter developed by SNK Playmore for the Nintendo DS. The seventh main entry in the *Metal Slug* series, it was the first to skip arcades for a direct console release. Set after *Metal Slug 4*, *5*, and *3D*, the Peregrine Falcon Squad (Marco Rossi, Tarma Roving, Eri Kasamoto, Fio Germi) and Ikari Warriors (Ralf Jones, Clark Still) unite to stop General Morden’s Rebel Army, now backed by futuristic soldiers from a time portal, on a militarized island landfill. Featuring seven missions, new vehicles (e.g., Slug Truck, Slug Gigant), and the Thunder Shot weapon, it uses the DS touchscreen for a level map. A revised version, *Metal Slug XX*, was released in 2009 (PSP) and 2010 (Xbox 360). It received mixed reviews (Metacritic: 68/100) for its intense action but lack of co-op and short length. ## Why Play Metal Slug 7? *Metal Slug 7* delivers classic *Metal Slug* chaos with six playable characters, each with unique traits (e.g., Marco’s pistol damage boost, Fio’s extra grenades). The Rush Blaster System rewards combo streaks, and new vehicles like the Slug Armor enhance combat variety. The DS touchscreen displays a map for power-ups and prisoners, while Combat School mode adds replayability. Its seven missions feature diverse settings (e.g., Garbage Island, Fortress of Ruins) and tough bosses, though the lack of multiplayer and shorter campaign (2-3 hours main story, 4-6 for completion) disappointed some. Its vibrant pixel art, Toshikazu Tanaka’s soundtrack, and challenging gameplay (Beginner, Normal, Hard modes) make it a must-play for retro ROM and shooter fans, despite no arcade roots. ## Game Features - Play as 6 characters: Marco, Tarma, Eri, Fio, Ralf, or Clark across 7 missions - Use handguns, grenades, and new Thunder Shot (homing electric blast) - Pilot vehicles: SV-001, Slugnoid, Slug Flyer, Slug Truck, Slug Gigant, Slug Armor - Utilize the DS touchscreen for a level map to find power-ups and prisoners - Rush Blaster System for combo-based scoring; Combat School mode for challenges - Experience authentic NDS gameplay on our retro ROM platform or *Metal Slug XX* (PSP, Xbox 360) ## Play Metal Slug 7 Online Lock and load today! Our website, Classic Joy Games, lets you play *Metal Slug 7* instantly with no downloads, optimized for modern browsers using NDS emulators. Alternatively, enjoy it on sites like Arcade Spot or EmulatorGames.net, or play *Metal Slug XX* on PSP, Xbox 360, or Steam (*ACA NEOGEO*). Physical copies are available on eBay or Amazon. Ideal for fans of retro ROMs and run and gun shooters! Note: For emulation, use DeSmuME or RetroArch for optimal performance; *Metal Slug XX* adds co-op and Leona Heidern as DLC. Join players worldwide and enjoy *Metal Slug 7* on Classic Joy Games or modern platforms. Start your mission now and crush Morden’s futuristic army to uphold the *Metal Slug* legacy!